Written by Carol McCloud with illustrations by David Messing, "Have You Filled a Bucket Today?" is now my four year old's favorite book.
We found this charming piece at the local library (yes - libraries are still a thing) where it joined the pile of turtle books, truck stories and the standard Dr. Seuss.
It was the first book chosen at story time, and the second - and the third, and though we haven't had reading moments yet today, I am sure it will be on the docket a few times. Unlike some Princess stories that shall not be named, I don't mind.
The entire message of this book is one of empathy and feelings, told in a way that really hits home with children. We all carry an invisible bucket that hold our good thoughts and feelings about ourselves, a bucket that can be filled with good deeds to ourselves and others, or emptied - 'dipped' - when we are mean or unkind. We can also have our buckets 'dipped' by others, who are 'bucket dippers', bullies, those saying cross words, etc.
I love the way McCloud portrays acts of kindness in an engaging and fun way that really showcases how small acts matter. My daughter, already a deep thinker at only 4, asked if she had a bucket when we were done with the story. If so, where is it? Inside?
The conversation was on point and the message came across loud and clear, something that is sometimes hard to do in a children's book.
For a child, this book is entertaining, colorful and friendly. For a parent, this book is meaningful and no small amount powerful. I am buying it.
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